Discover two inspiring ways to step into the world of professional skincare at Carteret Community College. Our Esthetics Technology program provides hands-on, salon-style training in the art and science of skincare so you can build confidence, master client-ready techniques, and prepare for North Carolina licensure and a career as a skincare specialist. Already a licensed esthetician ready to lead the next generation? The Esthetics Instructor program gives you the teaching methods, practice instruction, and Board-aligned coursework needed to become a skilled esthetics educator.

Explore the details for each program below to find the path that fits your goals.

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Program Overview

If you’re passionate about skincare, wellness, and helping others feel confident, Carteret Community College’s Esthetics Technology program is your path to a career in professional skin care. This certificate program delivers competency-based training rooted in both the scientific and artistic principles of esthetics. Students learn in a simulated salon environment, building hands-on skills and professional techniques that mirror real-world spa and skincare settings.

Coursework covers every phase of esthetics practice—from foundational skincare methods to advanced service delivery—while also preparing students in business skills, human relations, and product knowledge. With expert instruction and practical experience, graduates leave ready to step into the industry with confidence, professionalism, and client-ready ability.

What You’ll Learn

Students who complete the Esthetics Technology program will be able to:

  • Apply core scientific and artistic principles of skincare to real client services
  • Demonstrate safe, effective esthetics techniques in a professional setting
  • Use proper sanitation, infection control, and ethical standards expected in the beauty industry
  • Communicate confidently with clients and provide customer-centered skincare recommendations
  • Identify professional products and explain their appropriate use
  • Practice foundational business and workplace skills needed for success in salons and spas
  • Prepare for licensure and long-term growth in the skincare field
Salon Experience

Hands-on training is at the heart of Esthetics Technology at Carteret CC. Students develop their skills in a realistic, simulated salon setting, practicing professional techniques under the guidance of experienced instructors. This style environment allows students to refine manipulative skills, build confidence with clients, and master the workflow and expectations of the esthetics industry.

Career Paths

Graduates of the Esthetics Technology Certificate are prepared to sit for the North Carolina Cosmetology State Board Licensing Exam. After passing and becoming licensed, students qualify for in-demand roles such as:

  • Skincare Specialist
  • Esthetician in beauty or cosmetic/skincare salons
  • Spa or wellness center esthetics professional
  • Platform artist or product representative
  • Skincare consultant in related beauty businesses

Esthetics is a growing field with opportunities for creativity, client connection, and long-term career advancement. Whether you want to work in a salon, spa, or skincare-focused business, Carteret CC helps you build the skills to get started.

High School Pathway Option

Carteret Community College partners with the Carteret County School System to offer eligible high school students a unique opportunity. Students may enroll in Esthetics Technology while still in high school and earn both college and high school credits through this cooperative program agreement.

To learn more about eligibility and next steps, contact your high school counselor or a Carteret CC advisor for details.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re passionate about skincare, Carteret Community College’s Esthetics Technology program can help you turn that passion into a profession.

Certificate - Esthetics Technology

Certificate programs are short-term training options that can typically be completed in one (1) year or less. They are designed to prepare you for employment, upgrade your skills, or provide retraining—helping you quickly gain the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to advance in the workforce.

Course Sequence

Fall Semester

Course CodeTitleCredits
COS-119Esthetics Concepts I2
COS-120Esthetics Salon I6
Sub-Total Credits8

Spring Semester

Course CodeTitleCredits
COS-125Esthetics Concepts II2
COS-126Esthetics Salon II6
Sub-Total Credits8

Total Credits: 16 credits

Pathway - Esthetics Technology (CCP)

Career & College Promise (CCP) offers high school students the opportunity to take tuition-free college courses that count toward both high school and college graduation requirements. In about two years or less, students can complete college credits, certificates, or other credentials—giving them a valuable head start on their education and career goals. By enrolling in CCP, students save time, save money, and gain the confidence of knowing they are already on the path to success in college and beyond.

Course Sequence

Fall Semester

Course CodeTitleCredits
COS-119Esthetics Concepts I2
COS-120Esthetics Salon I6
Sub-Total Credits8

Spring Semester

Course CodeTitleCredits
COS-125Esthetics Concepts II2
COS-126Esthetics Salon II6
Sub-Total Credits8

Total Credits: 16 credits

Program Overview

The Esthetics Instructor curriculum provides a course of study covering the skills needed to teach the theory and practices of esthetics as required by the North Carolina State Board of Cosmetology. Course work includes all phases of esthetics theory laboratory instruction.

Graduates should be prepared to take the North Carolina Cosmetology State Board Esthetics Instructor Licensing Exam and upon passing be qualified for employment in a cosmetology or esthetics school.

Certificate - Esthetics Instructor

Certificate programs are short-term training options that can typically be completed in one (1) year or less. They are designed to prepare you for employment, upgrade your skills, or provide retraining—helping you quickly gain the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to advance in the workforce.

Course Sequence

Fall Semester

Course CodeTitleCredits
COS-253Esthetics Instructional Concepts I11
Sub-Total Credits11

Spring Semester

Course CodeTitleCredits
COS-254Esthetic Instructional Concepts II11
Sub-Total Credits11

Total Credits: 22 credits

Barber

Carteret CC’s Barbering program prepares students for success in today’s grooming industry through 1,528 hours of hands-on training and classroom instruction.

Students build the technical skills, safety practices, professional habits, and business knowledge needed for state licensure exams and entry-level barbering careers. With a focus on modern barbering techniques and real-world readiness, graduates are equipped to thrive in barbershops and related career fields.

Learn More about starting your barbering career at Carteret CC.

Cosmetology

Carteret Community College’s Cosmetology program combines creativity and career preparation with competency-based training in a simulated salon environment, where students gain hands-on experience rooted in both scientific and artistic beauty principles.

From hair design and chemical processes to skin care, nail care, multicultural practices, and salon business skills, the curriculum builds confidence, technique, and client-ready professionalism for today’s fast-growing cosmetology industry.

Graduates are prepared to sit for the North Carolina State Board of Cosmetic Arts exam, opening doors to careers in salons, spas, studios, retail education, or even salon ownership—and eligible high school students can jumpstart their future through a dual-enrollment pathway that earns both college credit and Carnegie units.

Learn More about how Carteret CC can help you turn your passion for beauty into a licensed, in-demand career.

Massage Therapy

Carteret Community College’s Massage Therapy program prepares you for a meaningful, in-demand career helping clients feel better, move easier, and live healthier through professional therapeutic touch.

This two-part program—Massage Therapy I and II—includes 650+ clock hours of hands-on training in massage theory, bodywork techniques, wellness principles, and clinical practice standards for spa, rehabilitative, and healthcare settings.

Graduates are eligible to sit for the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) to pursue North Carolina Massage Therapist licensure and begin working in direct client care.

Learn More about how Massage Therapy at Carteret CC can turn your passion for wellness into a career.

Book an Appointment

Treat yourself while supporting local student success at Carteret Community College’s Public Spa Services. Our Barber Academy, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Manicurist, and Massage Therapy students provide professional-level services—like facials, hair treatments, manicures, and deep tissue massages—under expert supervision, all at a fraction of typical salon prices. Enjoy quality care, great value, and help our students gain real-world experience. Schedule your appointment today!

Program Overview

If you’re passionate about skincare, wellness, and helping others feel confident, Carteret Community College’s Esthetics Technology program is your path to a career in professional skin care. This certificate program delivers competency-based training rooted in both the scientific and artistic principles of esthetics. Students learn in a simulated salon environment, building hands-on skills and professional techniques that mirror real-world spa and skincare settings.

Coursework covers every phase of esthetics practice—from foundational skincare methods to advanced service delivery—while also preparing students in business skills, human relations, and product knowledge. With expert instruction and practical experience, graduates leave ready to step into the industry with confidence, professionalism, and client-ready ability.

What You’ll Learn

Students who complete the Esthetics Technology program will be able to:

  • Apply core scientific and artistic principles of skincare to real client services
  • Demonstrate safe, effective esthetics techniques in a professional setting
  • Use proper sanitation, infection control, and ethical standards expected in the beauty industry
  • Communicate confidently with clients and provide customer-centered skincare recommendations
  • Identify professional products and explain their appropriate use
  • Practice foundational business and workplace skills needed for success in salons and spas
  • Prepare for licensure and long-term growth in the skincare field
Salon Experience

Hands-on training is at the heart of Esthetics Technology at Carteret CC. Students develop their skills in a realistic, simulated salon setting, practicing professional techniques under the guidance of experienced instructors. This style environment allows students to refine manipulative skills, build confidence with clients, and master the workflow and expectations of the esthetics industry.

Career Paths

Graduates of the Esthetics Technology Certificate are prepared to sit for the North Carolina Cosmetology State Board Licensing Exam. After passing and becoming licensed, students qualify for in-demand roles such as:

  • Skincare Specialist
  • Esthetician in beauty or cosmetic/skincare salons
  • Spa or wellness center esthetics professional
  • Platform artist or product representative
  • Skincare consultant in related beauty businesses

Esthetics is a growing field with opportunities for creativity, client connection, and long-term career advancement. Whether you want to work in a salon, spa, or skincare-focused business, Carteret CC helps you build the skills to get started.

High School Pathway Option

Carteret Community College partners with the Carteret County School System to offer eligible high school students a unique opportunity. Students may enroll in Esthetics Technology while still in high school and earn both college and high school credits through this cooperative program agreement.

To learn more about eligibility and next steps, contact your high school counselor or a Carteret CC advisor for details.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re passionate about skincare, Carteret Community College’s Esthetics Technology program can help you turn that passion into a profession.

Certificate - Esthetics Technology

Stay on track towards graduation.

Course Sequence

Fall Semester

Course CodeTitleCredits
COS-119Esthetics Concepts I2
COS-120Esthetics Salon I6
Sub-Total Credits8

Spring Semester

Course CodeTitleCredits
COS-125Esthetics Concepts II2
COS-126Esthetics Salon II6
Sub-Total Credits8

Total Credits: 16 credits

Pathway - Esthetics Technology (CCP)

Take tuition-free college courses that count toward both high school and college graduation requirements.

Course Sequence

Fall Semester

Course CodeTitleCredits
COS-119Esthetics Concepts I2
COS-120Esthetics Salon I6
Sub-Total Credits8

Spring Semester

Course CodeTitleCredits
COS-125Esthetics Concepts II2
COS-126Esthetics Salon II6
Sub-Total Credits8

Total Credits: 16 credits

Program Overview

The Esthetics Instructor curriculum provides a course of study covering the skills needed to teach the theory and practices of esthetics as required by the North Carolina State Board of Cosmetology. Course work includes all phases of esthetics theory laboratory instruction.

Graduates should be prepared to take the North Carolina Cosmetology State Board Esthetics Instructor Licensing Exam and upon passing be qualified for employment in a cosmetology or esthetics school.

Certificate - Esthetics Instructor

Stay on track towards graduation.

Course Sequence

Fall Semester

Course CodeTitleCredits
COS-253Esthetics Instructional Concepts I11
Sub-Total Credits11

Spring Semester

Course CodeTitleCredits
COS-254Esthetic Instructional Concepts II11
Sub-Total Credits11

Total Credits: 22 credits

Barber

Carteret CC’s Barbering program prepares students for success in today’s grooming industry through 1,528 hours of hands-on training and classroom instruction.

Students build the technical skills, safety practices, professional habits, and business knowledge needed for state licensure exams and entry-level barbering careers. With a focus on modern barbering techniques and real-world readiness, graduates are equipped to thrive in barbershops and related career fields.

Learn More about starting your barbering career at Carteret CC.

Cosmetology

Carteret Community College’s Cosmetology program combines creativity and career preparation with competency-based training in a simulated salon environment, where students gain hands-on experience rooted in both scientific and artistic beauty principles.

From hair design and chemical processes to skin care, nail care, multicultural practices, and salon business skills, the curriculum builds confidence, technique, and client-ready professionalism for today’s fast-growing cosmetology industry.

Graduates are prepared to sit for the North Carolina State Board of Cosmetic Arts exam, opening doors to careers in salons, spas, studios, retail education, or even salon ownership—and eligible high school students can jumpstart their future through a dual-enrollment pathway that earns both college credit and Carnegie units.

Learn More about how Carteret CC can help you turn your passion for beauty into a licensed, in-demand career.

Massage Therapy

Carteret Community College’s Massage Therapy program prepares you for a meaningful, in-demand career helping clients feel better, move easier, and live healthier through professional therapeutic touch.

This two-part program—Massage Therapy I and II—includes 650+ clock hours of hands-on training in massage theory, bodywork techniques, wellness principles, and clinical practice standards for spa, rehabilitative, and healthcare settings.

Graduates are eligible to sit for the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) to pursue North Carolina Massage Therapist licensure and begin working in direct client care.

Learn More about how Massage Therapy at Carteret CC can turn your passion for wellness into a career.

Book an Appointment

Treat yourself while supporting local student success at Carteret Community College’s Public Spa Services. Our Barber Academy, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Manicurist, and Massage Therapy students provide professional-level services—like facials, hair treatments, manicures, and deep tissue massages—under expert supervision, all at a fraction of typical salon prices.

Enjoy quality care, great value, and help our students gain real-world experience. Schedule your appointment today!

Want to Learn More?

Fill out the form to learn more about what Carteret CC has to offer!

Meet Our Students

Carteret Community College
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